Karachi: Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination Syed Mustafa Kamal said that Pakistan’s health system owes its strength to the leading health scientists, healthcare professionals, companies and organizations as well as thousands of workers who serve with dedication every day, from doctors and scientists to field staff and clerical workers.
“By recognising these people and workers, we pay tribute to all those who keep Pakistan’s health system running every day,” he said, while presenting the country’s first-ever National Health Awards during the 22nd Health Asia International Exhibition and Conference at the PAF Museum Convention Centre Karachi.
Mustafa Kamal lauded the award-winning professionals and institutions, saying Pakistan must acknowledge the contributions of all those serving the ailing and suffering humanity. For the first time, special awards were also presented to a woman polio worker, a peon, and a lower-division clerk in recognition of the vital roles played by frontline and support staff in strengthening healthcare delivery.
The inaugural National Health Awards marked a historic recognition of excellence across all sectors of healthcare — from medical research and clinical service to pharmaceutical innovation and humanitarian work. Among the prominent recipients were global health expert Prof. Dr. Zulfiqar A. Bhutta, the Health Research Advisory Board (HRAB), Health Services Academy Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan, and Alkhidmat Foundation Pakistan for their contributions to health research, capacity building, and community welfare.
The Prime Minister’s Sehat Sahulat Program, led by CEO M. Arshad Qaimkhani, was honoured for its role in expanding universal health coverage and improving access to healthcare for millions of underprivileged citizens across Pakistan.
In the hospital category, Rehman Medical Institute CEO Shafique ur Rehman received the award for outstanding leadership. The Aga Khan University Hospital, Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Shifa International Hospitals, Pakistan Kidney and Liver Institute, Indus Hospital & Health Network, Riphah International Hospital, and Tabba Heart Institute were recognised for excellence in quality, patient safety, and international accreditations.
The Riphah Institute of Healthcare Improvement was commended for introducing the most impactful patient safety initiative.
The pharmaceutical sector was represented by leading national manufacturers acknowledged for their global certifications and industry excellence. Getz Pharma received the award for highest exports, while ATCO Laboratories, CCL Pharma, Herbion Naturals, Nabiqasim Industries, Pacific Pharmaceuticals, PharmEvo Private Limited, Remington Pharmaceutical Industries, and Schazoo Zaka (Pvt.) Ltd. were honoured for their international certifications and manufacturing standards.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Dr. Zakiuddin Ahmed, organiser of the Health Asia Conference, said the event has evolved into Pakistan’s largest healthcare platform, bringing together local and international stakeholders.
“This year, we introduced the first-ever National Health Awards to honour individuals and organizations demonstrating excellence and innovation in their respective fields,” he said. He added that the conference featured 22 international speakers, including scientists, researchers, and policymakers from China, Russia, Turkey, Sweden, the United States, and across Europe and the Middle East.
Prof. Zakiuddin called for stronger collaboration between local and international partners to strengthen Pakistan’s healthcare system and emphasized the need to harness digital transformation and artificial intelligence to improve service delivery.
Farhan Anis, Vice President of E-Commerce Gateway Pakistan, welcomed the distinguished guests and highlighted the importance of the Health Asia platform in promoting innovation, partnerships, and investment in Pakistan’s healthcare and pharmaceutical industries.
The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, public health leaders, representatives of NGOs, hospitals, medical universities, and pharmaceutical companies. It marked a significant step towards institutionalizing recognition for excellence in healthcare and celebrating those who continue to uplift Pakistan’s health system through service, innovation, and compassion.
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